Why Use AIA Documents?

The AIA Advantage: Not All Standard Documents Are The Same.
The documents produced by The American Institute of Architects are the most widely used standard form contracts in the construction industry because:
  • AIA documents are fair.
    • AIA contract documents are consensus documents that reflect advice from practicing architects, contractors, engineers, owners, surety bond producers, insurers and attorneys. AIA documents balance the interests of all parties, so no one interest, including that of architects, is unfairly represented.
  • AIA documents reflect industry practices, not theory.
    • Where practices are inconsistent or no guidelines for practice exist, AIA documents provide a consensus-based model for practitioners to follow.
  • AIA documents reflect changing construction practices and technology.
    • AIA documents are revised regularly to accommodate changes in professional and industry practices, insurance and technology.
  • AIA documents reflect the law.
    • AIA documents are revised and updated to incorporate changes resulting from court interpretations and rulings, legal precedent and nuances.
  • AIA documents are flexible.
    • AIA documents can be easily modified to accommodate individual project demands. Such changes are easily distinguished from the original, printed language.
  • AIA documents are easy to interpret.
    • AIA documents use the common meaning of words and phrases. Industry and legal jargon is avoided whenever possible.